I think it is widely recognized that the movement for creating the Indian Ocean as a zone of peace really gained momentum after the initiative taken by the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka in 1971. Meanwhile, thanks to the efforts, particularly of the littoral and hinterland countries of the Indian Ocean, there is a growing recognition and support for this objective.
The Resolution adopted last week by the U.N. General Assembly's Political Committee is another step forward. This Resolution calls upon the great powers to refrain from strengthening their military presence in the Indian Ocean as an essential first step towards the relaxation of tension and to promote peace and security in the area. Furthermore, it envisaged the convening of an international conference under U.N. auspices. What happens in the Indian Ocean is not only the concern of India and Sri Lanka but of the entire region. The Indian Ocean has been a relatively calm and peaceful Ocean, and there is no justification for any great power to act in a manner which heightens tension there. This would run counter to the spirit of detente in international relations and would be inconsistent with U.N. Resolutions. It is important to remember that the territory of none of the great powers is situated on the Indian Ocean or its hinterland. The peace and security of this Ocean should be the concern and responsibility of the States bordering it. All littoral and hinterland States must continue their efforts to build up international opinion and support in favour of the Indian Ocean as a zone of peace and tranquility. The chances of success will to a great extent depend upon the unity of purpose and action displayed by thorn.
The process of peaceful persuasion may be slow but there is no other practical course open to us. The force of international opinion, if it is sufficiently strong and persistent, is bound to tell eventually. We have to press on with our endeavours till the goal is achieved.
